Ultimate test for Roos

They’re the real deal, but today’s challenge means so much

CLARENCE does not need to win today’s top-of-the-ladder blockbuster against North Launceston at UTas Stadium, says coach Jeromey Webberley, because those in the know recognise the Roos are the “real deal” in the race for the TSL premiership.

That doesn’t mean secondplaced Clarence is not out to break its losing streak at the AFL venue.

Webberley says the Roos could do it, but the Northern Bombers are hard to ground at their “Hanger”.

“It’s the hardest test in the TSL going to UTas and playing the reigning champion,” Webberley said. “Each week teams go out hunting them and challenging them and they win every week.”

Clarence has played North Launceston twice this season, both times at Blundstone Arena. The first time in Round 4, the Bombers claimed a 12point victory and left the Roos kicking themselves that they let that one get away.

The second time in Round 12, Clarence turned the tables in a two-point thriller and inflicted one of only two losses by North this season.

“Up at UTas it’s a completely different kettle of fish in terms of them being able to create one-on-ones up forward and the ground being so big it really suits the style of play they use,” Webberley said.

“It’s a big challenge. We have had some success against them at Blundstone, but in the past few years they’ve had our measure comfortably at UTas.

“Hopefully we can win this one this week.”

With Tasmania’s brightest AFL Draft hope Tarryn Thomas back in red and black today, North Launceston will finish on top of the ladder while Clarence is the best of the rest.

That’s why a loss to the Roos does not diminish their title hopes.

“The top five is pretty even and anyone on the top five can win the premiership,” Webberley said. “I would think that the people who matter would think we are the real deal.

“Whether we win, lose or draw, it’s about making sure we play the way we want to play and building momentum and continuity within the group.”